This spring, our students are in for a special opportunity: the chance to take a course taught by a United States Senator. We are delighted to announce that Senator Sheldon Whitehouse (D.R.I.) will be teaching “The Role of the Senate in the American Government,” and will discuss many of the unique aspects of our federal government and separation of powers, including such controversial issues as the Senate’s “advise and consent” role in approving presidential nominations and treaties, and impeachment, with special attention to historic moments in Senate history.

Senator Whitehouse, in only his second term, has already made his mark, especially in two important areas: climate change and the politicization of the Department of Justice under President George W. Bush.